Kusal Perera to undergo radiographic testing on hamstring

In his second outing in the Champions Trophy for Sri Lanka against India, Kusal Perera made a handy 44-ball 47 after being promoted up the batting order. His partnership with skipper Angelo Mathews was responsible for causing the most unexpected upset over the defending champions, making the upcoming match for each of the four teams in Group B a crucial game.

However, the 7-wicket victory for Sri Lanka did not come as easily as it appeared because Perera and Mathews were both struggling with injuries during their stay at the crease. Kusal retired hurt due to a hamstring injury moments before registering his half-century and was seen being taken to the dressing room with help from the support staff.

Radiographic test

Kusal Perera will undergo a radiographic testing on Friday (June 9) in order to find out the extent of the hamstring injury ahead of their must-win game against Pakistan, as reported by Cricbuzz. This made Perera the third player in the 15-man squad to be affected by injury. Chamara Kapugedara had sustained an injury earlier, and as a result, was ruled out in the encounter against India.

Gunathilaka came in for the injured Kapugedera. Sri Lanka Cricket’s trouble with injuries elevated as Angelo Mathews’ injury did not show positive signs on his comeback to the team.

Possible replacements

They have now decided to draft in all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva as a backup player in the squad, as a precautionary measure. As a cautionary move, Lankans already had Danushka Gunathilaka and Dilruwan Perera as standby players alongside the 15-member squad.

Gunathilaka’s impactful 76 off 72 marked his presence immediately and has reserved his spot in the top-order. If Perera is ruled out of the tournament, one among Dilruwan or Dhananjaya is expected to replace the dashing batsman in the squad.